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Kitchen Guide

How to Season Pans & Pots

While most stainless steel, aluminum, or cast-iron pots and pans (cookware) usually come seasoned from the manufacturer, the seasoned layer eventually wears down. It will need to be re-seasoned to prevent sticking during cooking. Non-stick pans never have to be seasoned, but they cannot reach high temperatures and usually wear down faster.

Tom Tom Founder
Published:
October 14, 2024

What Is Seasoning?

Seasoning is the process of filling the surface pores of the pan or pot with seasoning oil, creating a protective barrier that prevents sticking and burning. It sounds complicated, but it really isn’t.

What Needs To Be Seasoned?

All stainless steel, aluminum, or cast-iron cookware needs to be seasoned if food sticks to the surface during cooking. Sticking is very irritating, especially on a fry pan, sauté pan, or stir-fry pan. It can also cause trouble with sauce pans, pots, and even cast iron crepe makers.

Seasoning Oil

Any oil with a high smoking point is a great choice. Read more here

Food & Ingredients

Oil

When you select an oil that is great for your cooking and food preparation, it is important to consider the nutrients, the health benefits, but most importantly the smoke point.

Read More
Tom Tom Founder

Safety Precaution

Always monitor the seasoning process, as any oil can catch fire quickly.

Seasoning Techniques

There are many seasoning techniques, but here are two of my favorites:

Seasoning on Burners

  1. Pour seasoning oil into the cookware (about 1/8 inch layer).
  2. Place the cookware on medium heat and let it season for about 5-10 minutes or until it starts to smoke—whichever comes first.
  3. Let it cool completely and then wipe with a paper towel (do not wash).
  4. You may have to repeat this process a few times if you start with a heavily under-seasoned pan.

Seasoning in an Oven

Note: It can be used only with oven-proof cookware (no plastic handles).

  1. Before you start, ensure the handle is oven-proof to 300°F. If it is not, do not use this technique.
  2. Pour seasoning oil into the cookware (about 1/4 inch).
  3. Place in an oven preheated to 300°F for 15 minutes.
  4. Let it cool completely and then wipe with a paper towel (do not wash).

How Often Do I Need To Season My Cookware?

There is no set recommendation. Season your cookware when it starts sticking.

How To Clean Seasoned Cookware:

  • Never put it in the dishwasher—this will remove the seasoned layer.
  • Use very hot water and try not to use dish soap, as it will shorten the life of the seasoned layer.
  • Use a scrubbing brush or sponge.

How To prevent Sticking In General

To prevent sticking, always place food in a preheated pan (unless the recipe states otherwise). This is especially important for pans that need to be seasoned.

About the Author:
TomFounder
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